thinking of getting a target gun.

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Randy1911

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Here lately I have been considering getting a informal target revolver in either 357 Mag or 38 Spl. I plan on shooting 148gr. DEWC with a light load (recommendation). What type of revolver would do me the best? I have 2 Ruger Blackhacks with 4-5/8 " barrel, but I don't think they would be right. Suggestions please. I don't know nothing about target revolvers, so be nice.:p
 
If you're going to be shooting .38s, I'd say look for a S&W K-38, or Model 14, known (unofficially) as the Target Masterpiece. Designed for target work, the revolver is arguably as accurate a centerfire wheelgun as you will find. In weight and balance, it complements the K-22 and the K-32.
 
Are they still in production or is a used all I'm going to find? I'll check the local gun shops. Thanks. Any other suggestions.
 
Randy, I'd say definitely buy used. You want the best deal you can find on a blued, no-lock, S&W K-38 (or M14) revolver. There are plenty of good deals out there if you'll be watchful and patient. By summer, I'll bet you can score a fine K-38 that you'll love and shoot for the rest of your life for less than $500.

I bought my 99% 14-4 (target hammer, trigger, and stocks) a few years back through the classifieds on the S&W forum. No box or tools, but I'm not a collector. It's an absolutely superb target revolver, no question about it. Do a little searching here and over on the S&W forum, and you'll see my assessment confirmed by far better and more knowledgeable shooters than I am.
 
Randy: Most model 14s didn't have the heavy barrel underlug, so that one is probably priced for it's rarity and interest to collectors.
The Standard Catalog of S&W gave $450 as the value of an excellent condition model 14 in 2006.
 
Randy--

Radagast is right. For myself, I would look for the Model 14-4 and earlier. In 1982 the 14 was discontinued until 1991, when the 14-5 was introduced with the full underlug. Obviously, the gun balances differently with the underlug. As it was designed originally, the K-38 was intended to complement the K-22 (without the underlug).

I have a 6-inch 617 and a 6-inch 686, both with the full underlug, and I really like them, too, but the K-38 has another feel to it altogether. You'd have to handle them (at least) to get an idea of what you'd prefer.

Here's a nice-looking one at a good price (for now):

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=124943767
 
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That is nice. I will go to my local gunshops this weekend and see what I can find. I'll ask the clerk if they have a model 14-4 or a K-38. I assume that a 6" barrel would be best. I'll go from there. Wish me luck. There are several stores with decent amount of inventory within easy driving.
 
Good luck, Randy. Hope you can land one. Most 14s were in the 6-inch length, with only a few in 4-inch, some in 8 3/8, and very few in a 5-inch variation.

If you can reel in a nice one for under $500 out the door, man, these days that's about the best bargain going for a premium target revolver.
 
Dear Randy1911,

I am no great shot, but my first shot with my 14-2 (4") went in the middle of the bullseye. The second shot went in the same hole. I thought that the bullet had stuck in the barrel or something until I looked closely at the target and the gun. I had spent about 15 years going through various handguns, always wishing it would feel better or that I could shoot it better. Now I'm home! So, naturally I recommend the K38 or 14 very highly. If you find a nice K22 or 17 to go with it, you and the newbies you teach will enjoy the ease and economy of learning on .22LR, on basically the same gun as your 14.

LBS
 
Since this is for target shooting and not carrying I would suggest a 6" K frame .38 Special revolver with adjustable sights. There are several S&W models available on the used market so I'm sure you will find something you like. Nothing wrong with shooting .38 Special ammo in a .357 Magnum either but the .38 Specials are usually less costly. The M14 like mentioned above is a good example.
 
One other potential S&W revolver that is good for target work is the model 15. This is only a 4" model with a ramp front sight as opposed to the 6" barrel model 14 with a patridge front sight. Otherwise the models almost identical. The model 15 is probably easier to find and should be a bit cheaper.
 
If it doesn't HAVE to be a revolver, the Smith model 52 was designed to shoot 38 WC all day long. They're pricey, but exceptionally accurate as well...
 
I called all of the local gunshops and no one had what I was looking for. So I went to gunsamerica and found one that I could afford. I went ahead and clicked the "Buy It Now" because I really wanted it and could afford it.
http://www.gunsamerica.com/96198041...Full-Frame-Revolver/S_W_MODEL_14_1_38_SPL.htm

I am using my gunsmith for the transaction so I will have him check it before accepting it. The seller has over 800 postive feedbacks so I should be ok. What do you think.
 
You're fast! Looks like a real nice one, Randy. I hope the action job is to your liking. Sounds as though the previous owner cared meticulously about its feel and accuracy--that's sure encouraging. I've never seen rubber grips in that particular style. They look comfortable. But you may want to invest later in some correct wooden stocks for it--or some Herretts, say--to dress it up a little.

But the proof'll be in the shooting, all right. That's why you bought it. Be sure to let us know.
 
Excellent choice. You have a keeper (or will have). Hope you enjoy it.

I like a person who knows what they want and goes for it.
 
I talked to the lady at Cliff's Guns in ID, the one that had the gun. As soon as she gets my dealer's FFL it will be on its way. Can't wait. I ordered some 148 gr. DEWC last night. Any advise on how to load them. Like flush or what. I never load that style of bulet.
 
Randy,
I think you'll be very pleased. I remember shooting my first K-38. I couldn't believe what I had been missing. I was shooting autos and they were fun but its kind of a quality vs. quantity thing. The K-38 is a straight shooter.
I'd agree that some nice wooden grips (stocks in S&W speak) will be required to do it justice. The rubber grips might be to your liking for shooting though. Please post a range report once you receive it!!
 
Here is my current production 4" 64:

IMG_0553.jpg

I would suggest a 4" 67, which only differs in having an adjustable rear sight, should your deal not go through. They are available in the $320-$450 range used, and list for $822 now, making a new one run $630-$675 at a fair dealer. The great thing about buying new is the forever warranty - available via an 800# call. My Ahrends grips shown are $60 from them - $6 s/h, too.

Stainz
 
Older S&W Model 14 or a Colt Trooper Mk III. Both fine guns, both very accurate, and can both be had reasonable for the quality of gun you are getting. (<$500)
 
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